benefit stub · SSA · 2026-10-04
Figure the 2026 Earnings-Test Withholding
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Example result
$3,000.00 withheld on this earnings figure.
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Under full retirement age all year: $1 withheld for every $2 over $24,480.
About 2 monthly checks cover $3,000.00. SSA withholds whole checks. This month count is an estimate, not the check calendar.
- Exempt amount: $24,480.00.
- Earnings over the exempt amount: $6,000.00.
- Withholding: $3,000.00.
- Estimated checks to cover the withholding: 2.
What would change this
Lower earned income, or reaching full retirement age, reduces or ends the withholding.
Next step
SSA counts wages and net self-employment earnings. It does not count pensions, investments, or veterans benefits. Report earnings to SSA.
Re-run this if wages change before the year ends, or when you reach full retirement age.
This tool gives general information. It is not financial or tax advice. Confirm the numbers with the provider or a licensed adviser before you act.
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Show the working
- Source: SSA exempt amounts page and SSA FAQ KA-01921, checked 2026-10-04.
- 2026 lower exempt amount: $24,480. Higher exempt amount: $65,160.
- The month count is an estimate: withholding divided by the monthly benefit, rounded up. Range: that many checks, or one fewer if SSA applies a remainder later.
Data as of 2026-10-04. Source: SSA — Exempt Amounts Under the Earnings Test.
What this does not cover
- Special payments after retirement can be excluded. This tool does not identify them.
- The month count is an estimate, not the SSA check calendar.
- A spousal or survivor benefit can also be affected. Confirm with SSA.
This tool gives general information. It is not financial or tax advice. Confirm the numbers with the provider or a licensed adviser before you act.
Re-run this if wages change before the year ends, or when you reach full retirement age.